Trees felled across fire access roads

Local fire chiefs are urging the public to refrain from felling trees across fire access roads after reports of four timbered trees in the past month. The trees, found across access roads in Redgate, Brookfield, Cowaramup and in the A-Class Reserve in Margaret River, all appear to have been deliberately cut to obstruct the emergency routes. Shire Community Emergency Services Manager Adam Jasper said the incidents were being treated as serious and had been reported to police. “While we can’t confirm the trees are being felled by the same person we do suspect the incidents are related given the similar axe cuts and way in which the trees had been felled,” he said. “In any case, we urge the perpetrators to please stop. “These access ways are critical for getting vehicles in and out in emergency situations. “We can’t afford to be coming across deliberately felled trees during a fire incident when vehicle access can mean the difference of saving lives and properties. “Please think about the potential risk and impact of your actions.” Mr Jasper said the Shire had now removed the four fallen trees, using resources that could have been deployed elsewhere at this busy time of year. “This is an unnecessary waste of time and resources just as the Prohibited Burning Period has commenced,” he said. “If anyone has information about the incidents I urge you to please contact the Shire on 9780 5255. “Anyone caught felling trees or blocking emergency access ways could be prosecuted.”